Simple Vanilla Pound Cake

Name: Simple Vanilla Pound Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 10 slices
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk

Highlighted under: Simple Cooking

I love baking this Simple Vanilla Pound Cake whenever I need a comforting treat or a dessert for friends. The buttery flavor paired with aromatic vanilla makes this cake truly delightful. It's a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require any special techniques, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike. I enjoy it plain, but it's also fantastic with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of fresh berries on the side. Each slice is moist, tender, and full of vanilla goodness!

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:57:35.915Z

Baking has always been a cherished activity for me. When I first stumbled upon the concept of a simple pound cake, I was intrigued by how the minimal ingredients could create such a flavorful dessert. The key I discovered is in properly creaming the butter and sugar, which incorporates air into the batter and leads to that wonderfully light texture.

I often add a bit of vanilla bean paste for an extra richness, which elevates the cake even further. For a distinctive twist, consider substituting some of the vanilla for almond extract, which complements the buttery flavor beautifully. Each attempt has only refined my technique and deepened my love for this classic treat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Incredibly buttery flavor with a hint of vanilla
Perfectly moist texture that lasts for days
Versatile base for various toppings or mix-ins

Understanding the Ingredients

The beauty of this Simple Vanilla Pound Cake lies in its classic ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the final texture and flavor. The unsalted butter offers a rich, creamy backdrop, while the granulated sugar enhances sweetness and contributes to the cake’s tender crumb. Using room temperature eggs ensures they incorporate smoothly into the batter, which is vital for achieving a fluffy texture. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with egg whites or even a flaxseed mixture for a vegan option, though the flavor will vary.

Flour is the backbone of this cake, and using all-purpose flour strikes the right balance between structure and tenderness. However, for a lighter alternative, you might experiment with cake flour, which has a finer grain and lower protein content, resulting in an even softer cake. When whisking together the dry ingredients, ensure they are well combined to avoid any pockets of baking powder or salt, which can lead to uneven rising.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure even baking, it's important to pour the batter into a pre-greased and floured pan without skipping this step. The initial grease will help the crust develop a lovely golden color, while the flour assists in preventing sticking. Pay careful attention while baking; when the edges start to pull away slightly from the pan and the top becomes golden brown, that’s a good sign to check with a toothpick. It should come out clean if the cake is done. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil to prevent over-baking.

Cooling properly is essential for achieving the perfect slice. After removing it from the oven, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This lets the steam release and makes it easier to transfer to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely to ensure it slices neatly without crumbling, which is particularly important if you plan to serve it with toppings like fresh berries or whipped cream.

Creative Serving Suggestions

While this Simple Vanilla Pound Cake is delicious on its own, you can elevate it with various toppings and accompaniments. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the cake’s buttery flavor. For a fruitier twist, serve slices with a side of macerated berries—simply combine mixed berries with a bit of sugar and let them sit until they release their juices. They make a refreshing and vibrant contrast to the cake.

Another fantastic way to enjoy this cake is by transforming it into a delicious dessert with ice cream or custard. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding mix-ins to the batter, such as chocolate chips or toasted nuts, for added texture and flavors. Additionally, leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to five days or frozen for up to three months, making it perfect for making ahead of time.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for the best pound cake experience:

Cake Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Simple Vanilla Pound Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious Simple Vanilla Pound Cake with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For a more intense vanilla flavor, use vanilla bean paste instead of extract. This cake can also be easily adapted by adding chocolate chips or citrus zest for a refreshing twist.

Ingredient Substitutions

One great feature of this pound cake is its versatility with substitutions. If you're out of unsalted butter, you can use margarine or coconut oil. Just make sure they are melted and cooled before adding them to your sugar mixture to maintain the right texture. For a dairy-free version, almond milk or oat milk can replace cow's milk without compromising the cake's richness.

When it comes to vanilla extract, you can experiment with different types of vanilla extracts or even vanilla bean paste for an extra burst of flavor. In cases where you're looking to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute like erythritol, but be mindful it may alter the texture slightly.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This pound cake's flavor only improves over time, making it an excellent candidate for make-ahead baking. Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Alternatively, for extended storage, freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic or foil for up to three months, ensuring you can enjoy the delightful taste anytime.

When ready to serve, simply thaw the frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for a few hours. If you want to refresh the cake after freezing, pop it in a warm oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for about 10 minutes. This step can help restore that freshly baked flavor and moisture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you notice that your cake is excessively dry or crumbly, this could be a sign of overbaking or too much flour. Ensure your flour is measured accurately—spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag. This will prevent compacting the flour and using more than needed.

Conversely, if your cake sinks in the middle, it may indicate underbaking or too much liquid. Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out with wet batter, bake it a little longer. Patience is key; every oven is different, so know your oven's baking personality to perfect your pound cake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While you can substitute margarine, the flavor and texture may not be the same. Butter gives the best flavor and moisture.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. It also freezes well for up to three months.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure it has a 1:1 ratio for best results.

→ What can I serve with pound cake?

Pound cake is delicious on its own or served with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.